According to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, that four-year, $161 million contract for Chase includes $73.9 million guaranteed at signing. The guarantees go beyond Year 1, too, with roster bonuses and $29.8 million guaranteed for 2027. By March of 2027, the running total of guarantees will reach $112 million.

Joe Burrow has repeatedly stressed the importance of the Bengals re-signing both Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. The Bengals' quarterback has gotten his wish as the team has come to terms with both star wide receivers,

The most likely reasons Ja'Marr Chase chose to sign a long-term extension with the Bengals are, in some order, the money and quarterback Joe Burrow. Chase is now the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history,